A crash on the Trans-Canada Highway near Benton late yesterday afternoon claimed the life of a well-known community member of Central Newfoundland.

Lead Pastor Ralph Benson of the Evangel Pentecostal Church in Gander was killed when his vehicle collided with a transport truck late yesterday afternoon. He was the lone occupant of the car.

Pastor Mike Freake says the past hours have been extremely difficult—too difficult to accurately put into words.

Hundreds of messages of condolence have been shared by members of the church community, and those who knew him well, recounting fond memories of Pastor Benson.

Pastor Benson leaves behind his wife Paulette as well as children and grandchildren.